According to the Student Code of Conduct, faculty members have the primary responsibility of managing the classroom environment. Faculty members may temporarily remove a disruptive student from the classroom for the day. In addition, faculty members may seek permanent removal of a disruptive student from the class by way of a referral to the Dean of Students’ Office for a necessary due process hearing under the Student Code of Conduct.
Suggestions for Avoiding Classroom Disruption
• Clearly state course and behavioral norms and expectations on the first day of class, also include in your syllabus.
• Model professional behavior.
• Do not overreact to disruptive behavior, but do not ignore it either.
• Address behavior clearly and directly with students, they may not be aware that it is disruptive.
• Treat students with respect and fairness, they will sense that and be more eager to comply.
• Do not publicly humiliate students; call them aside to discuss the behavior.
• Consistently document conduct and your attempts to resolve the situation.
• Report patterns of disruption to the Office of Judicial Affairs and your department chair.
• Contact University Police if a student makes any threats of violence to him/herself or others.
Examples of Disruptive Behavior
• Making loud and distracting noises.
• Passing notes.
• Repeatedly answering cell phones or allowing communication devices to make noise.
• Persisting in speaking without being recognized.
• Repeatedly leaving and entering the classroom.
• Inappropriate emails and continuous persistence.
• Harassment over email.
• Making physical threats or verbal insults to the faculty member or other students.
• Exhibiting erratic, irrational behavior.
What Students Can Do To Avoid Classroom Disruption
• Arrive for class early and not leave early.
• Respect instructors and fellow students.
• Turn off cell phones and other communication devices.
• Refrain from eating in class.
• Avoid the use of profanity.
• Avoid being inattentive.
